This is not the usual textbook of embryology. The growth and development of organ systems are reviewed but take up only one third of the total pages. The work includes fetal and placental development from conception to birth of the newborn and discusses the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the embryonic and fetal phases of a child's lifetime.

This well-organized summary of intrauterine development has three major portions: (1) conception and placentation, (2) growth and development, and (3) chromosomal aberrations. The first portion considers ovulation, sperm transport, fertilization, implantation, anatomy and physiology of the placenta, and amniotic fluid. I regard the chapters on anatomy of the placenta and fetal water metabolism as highlights in communication of facts and ideas. The second portion considers embryology and fetal development of the various organ systems, with emphasis on metabolic and hormonal aspects. The chapters on hemoglobin and fetal thyroid are too long and